Weather Ends UM Game Early

The Michigan-Western Michigan football game, the season opener for both teams, ended early after two lengthy weather delays.

Michigan was leading 20-10 early in the third quarter when the rain started and officials decided to delay play because lightning was spotted within six miles of the stadium. While some fans sought cover, other fans were staying in their seats.

Then late in the third quarter, the teams were again sent to the locker room because of lightning. After a more than one hour delay, the game was called and Michigan was declared the winner. The final score 34-10.

The Broncos scored on their first possession of the game, but U of M used a record breaking 94-yard interception return by Brandon Herron and two short touchdown runs from Fitzgerald Toussaint in the second quarter to take the lead. Herron returned a fumble for a touchdown in the third quarter, giving Michigan a 17 point lead. A long run by Michael Shaw finished the scoring.

University of Michigan Athletic Director Dave Brandon praised his counterpart at Western Michigan for allowing the game to end.

Brandon said the Wolverines sang Hail to the Victors in the lockerroom after the game was called.

I was at the U of M game and it would have been nuts not to call it with all the lightning; someone could have been killed. Michigan looked sloppy — even Robinson — and we still lack talent, but Mattison changed the defensive scheme after the first WMU score; he’s worth the $750K.